Grammys 2019: Childish Gambino’s ‘This Is America’ Wins Song Of The Year

This is America by Childish Gambino won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year, marking Donald Glover’s third award on the evening. The award goes to Donald Glover & Ludwig Goransson, the songwriters, the win no doubt powered by its accompanying groundbreaking video.

Neither was present to accept the award. Song of the Year is a songwriter’s award. A song (singles or tracks) is eligible if it was first released or if it first achieved prominence during the Eligibility Year.

Glover’s dissonant song of commentary about the socio-economic status of black men was made especially controversial by a jarring art-house video which includes moments of abrupt violence and gunplay. Glover himself has a federal heritage — he was born in the Reagan years at Edwards Air Force Base in 1983.

Glover is a multi-threat talent with comedy and acting pursuits. His screen credits include Solo: A Star Wars Story, Atlanta and NBC’s Community.

It’s the 60th anniversary of song of the year category, which recognizes songwriting.(as opposed to record of the year, which honors the best overall recording). This year’s field of eight nominees made the competition the most crowded one in the prestigious category’s history.